Caleb MorganBy Caleb Morgan

Updated November 2026

Learning how to clean trail running shoes takes about 20 to 30 minutes and keeps mud, grit, and moisture from breaking down the upper, outsole, and midsole. You will need a soft brush, mild soap, cool water, and a dry, shaded spot to air them out. Done correctly, the shoes come out clean without the adhesive loosening or the foam getting damaged.

Before You Start: Gather the Right Supplies

Harsh cleaners and hot water cause most of the damage people do to trail shoes, so keep the kit simple.

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  • A stiff-bristled brush for the outsole lugs and a soft brush for the mesh upper
  • A bowl of cool water
  • A few drops of mild dish soap or a cleaner made for technical footwear
  • Clean microfiber cloths or old towels
  • Newspaper or paper towels to stuff the shoes while they dry

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Trail Running Shoes

  1. Remove the laces and insoles. Laces can be washed separately. Pull the insoles out so you can clean under them and let them dry on their own.
  2. Knock off dry debris. Tap the soles together outdoors and use a dry brush to clear dirt from the lugs, toe box, and the seams around the midsole.
  3. Scrub with soapy water. Dip the soft brush in cool, soapy water and work in small circles across the mesh and overlays. Use the stiffer brush on the outsole only.
  4. Rinse gently. Wipe away suds with a damp cloth. Avoid spraying the shoes with a hose at full pressure, which can force water into the foam and push grit into seams.
  5. Clean the laces and insoles. Hand-wash the laces in the same soapy water, then rinse. Wipe the insoles and let them dry flat.
  6. Air dry. Stuff the shoes loosely with newspaper or paper towels, replacing them as they absorb moisture. Keep the shoes out of direct sun and away from heaters or dryers.

Drying and Storage Tips That Protect the Foam

Heat is the biggest threat to the midsole. Most manufacturers recommend against machine drying and placing shoes near radiators, because high temperatures can warp the foam and weaken the adhesive. Air drying can take 24 to 48 hours for a soaked pair, so plan around that. Once they are fully dry, store them in a cool, dry place rather than in a closed car or a damp gym bag.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Putting shoes in a washing machine or dryer, which can separate the glue and damage the foam
  • Using bleach or strong solvents that fade the upper and degrade the materials
  • Drying shoes on a hot surface or in direct sunlight
  • Scrubbing too hard on mesh, which can tear the fabric
  • Stuffing shoes with tight wads of paper that deform the toe box

A dedicated shoe brush set makes the scrubbing step faster and more thorough, especially for deep lugs. Choose one with a stiff bristle head and a softer detail brush.

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A dedicated technical footwear cleaner is gentler on mesh and synthetic overlays than general-purpose detergents. Look for one labeled safe for running shoes.

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FAQ

Can I put trail running shoes in the washing machine?

It is not recommended. The tumbling and heat can loosen glue and damage the foam, so hand cleaning is the safer choice.

How often should I clean my trail running shoes?

Clean them after muddy or wet runs, and do a light cleaning after any run where grit gets trapped in the upper. Regular cleaning prevents buildup that wears down materials over time.

Why do my shoes smell after cleaning?

Odor usually comes from sweat that stays in the foam or insoles. Make sure they dry completely, and consider washing the insoles more often. If odor persists, a professional cleaner or footwear specialist can offer advice.

Conclusion

Cleaning trail running shoes by hand with cool water, mild soap, and a soft brush protects the upper, outsole, and midsole. Air drying away from heat keeps the foam and adhesives intact. Follow these steps after each muddy run, and your shoes will last longer and perform better on the trail.

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Caleb Morgan

About Caleb Morgan

Caleb Morgan is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our running gear & races guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.